Chapter I

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

a feeling of delighted approval and liking

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

the feeling that accompanies something extremely surprising

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

past form of “answer” — react verbally

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

any thing at all

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

the feeling that accompanies something extremely surprising

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

heard or perceptible by the ear

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

the past participle of “be”

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

accept as true; take to be true

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

with self-possession (especially in times of stress)

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

definitely or positively (“sure” is sometimes used informally for “surely”)

From this reading “A lady, of such a good family, and marrying a man who was certainly not a gentleman.”

plural of “claim” — an assertion of a right (as to money or property)

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

in mental comfort; without stress

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

a disorderly outburst or tumult

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

intentionally conceived

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

the past of “can”; used for possibility or polite requests

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

inflected form of “cry” — utter a sudden loud cry

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

disapproval expressed by pointing out faults or shortcomings

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

a prayer to avert or remove some evil or disaster

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

the past form of “do”, used in questions and negatives

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

a person who uses scientific knowledge to solve practical problems

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

having escaped, especially from confinement

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

brought about or set up or accepted; especially long established

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

all the members of a group, with none left out

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

the feeling of lively and cheerful joy

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

a piece of information about circumstances that exist or events that have occurred

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

a social unit living together

From this reading “A lady, of such a good family, and marrying a man who was certainly not a gentleman.”

to a considerable degree; very much

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

the experiencing of affective and emotional states

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

a boy or man

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

make full, also in a metaphorical sense

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

in a free manner

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

look with amazement; look stupidly

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

a man of refinement

From this reading “A lady, of such a good family, and marrying a man who was certainly not a gentleman.”

plural of “gentleman” — a man of refinement

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

showing or causing joy and pleasure; especially made happy

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

the act of departing

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

having desirable or positive qualities especially those suitable for a thing specified

From this reading “A lady, of such a good family, and marrying a man who was certainly not a gentleman.”

the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

a form of whist in which players avoid winning tricks containing hearts or the queen of spades

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

occupied or in the control of; often used in combination

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

the person speaking or writing, as the subject of the verb

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

not capable of occurring or being accomplished or dealt with

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

in truth (often tends to intensify)

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

The formal questioning of a suspect by police detectives or magistrates.

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

plural of “lady” — a polite name for any woman

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

a polite name for any woman

From this reading “A lady, of such a good family, and marrying a man who was certainly not a gentleman.”

of marriages and offspring; recognized as lawful

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

the experience of being alive; the course of human events and activities

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

an adult person who is male (as opposed to a woman)

From this reading “A lady, of such a good family, and marrying a man who was certainly not a gentleman.”

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “as” or “too” or “so” or “that”; amounting to a large but indefinite number

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

take in marriage

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

-ing form of “marry” — take in marriage

From this reading “A lady, of such a good family, and marrying a man who was certainly not a gentleman.”

mean or intend to express or convey

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

inflected form of “mean” — mean or intend to express or convey

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

fail to perceive or to catch with the senses or the mind

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

a particular point in time

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

used to form the superlative

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

plural of “mother” — a woman who has given birth to a child (also used as a term of address to your mother)

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

a form of address for a man

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

a form of address for a married woman

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

a low continuous indistinct sound; often accompanied by movement of the lips without the production of articulate speech

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

open rebellion against constituted authority (especially by seamen or soldiers against their officers)

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

information about recent and important events

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

plural of “note” — a brief written record

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

not one thing; not anything

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

in the historical present; at this point in the narration of a series of past events

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

a midwestern state in north central United States in the Great Lakes region

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

not allowed to continue to bat or run

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

one side of one leaf (of a book or magazine or newspaper or letter etc.) or the written or pictorial matter it contains

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

(plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

by chance

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

experiencing or manifesting pleasure

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

deserving or inciting pity

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

past form of “pour” — cause to run

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

the force applied to a unit area of surface; measured in pascals (SI unit) or in dynes (cgs unit)

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

-ing form of “produce” — bring forth or yield

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

past form of “propose” — make a proposal, declare a plan for something

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

past form of “push” — move with force

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

inflected form of “run” — move fast by using one's feet, with one foot off the ground at any given time

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

not often

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

feel remorse for; feel sorry for; be contrite about

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

past form of “remain” — stay the same; remain in a certain state

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

recurring again and again

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

being the one previously mentioned or spoken of

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

express in words

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

from a time in the past until now

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

feeling or expressing regret or sorrow or a sense of loss over something done or undone

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

a particular environment or walk of life

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

a light open horse-drawn carriage with two or four wheels and one seat

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

a facility equipped with special equipment and personnel for a particular purpose

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

inflected form of “step” — shift or move by taking a step

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading “A lady, of such a good family, and marrying a man who was certainly not a gentleman.”

having or feeling no doubt or uncertainty; confident and assured

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

used when the people doing the action are also its object

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

in or at that place or location

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

judge or regard; look upon; judge

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

in spite of the fact that

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

from one end or side of something to the other

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

(used to introduce a logical conclusion) from that fact or reason or as a result

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

an instance or single occasion for some event

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

the quality of a person's voice

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

plural of “tongue” — a mobile mass of muscular tissue covered with mucous membrane and located in the oral cavity

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

the cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

of worldwide scope or applicability

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

precisely as stated

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

plural of “visitor” — someone who visits

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading “But he is a very good fellow,” the gentlemen said; and one or two of the mothers who were conscious in their hearts, though they did not say anything of the fact, that had he proposed for Edie or Ethel, they would have pushed his claims as far as legitimate pressure could go, held their tongues or said little, with a feeling that they had themselves escaped the criticism which was now so freely poured forth.

used to ask for information about something

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

at the time that

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

used to introduce two or more possibilities

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

which person or people

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

including all components without exception; being one unit or constituting the full amount or extent or duration; complete

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

the form of “who” used as the object of a verb or preposition

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.

a raging and rapidly spreading conflagration

From this reading The news that Miss Ferrars was going to marry Mr. Rowland the engineer, ran through the station like wildfire, producing a commotion and excitement which had rarely been equalled since the time of the Mutiny.

in the company of; together with

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

the feeling aroused by something strange and surprising

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading Miss Ferrars! and Mr. Rowland!--it was repeated in every tone of wonder and astonishment, with as many audible notes of admiration and interrogation as would fill a whole page.

the person or people being spoken to

From this reading “Impossible!” people said, “I don’t believe it for a moment”--“You don’t mean to say----” But when Mrs. Stanhope, who was Miss Ferrars’ friend, with whom she had been living, answered calmly that this was indeed what she meant to say, and that she was not very sure whether she was most sorry or glad--most pleased to think that her friend was thus comfortably established in life, or sorry that she was perhaps stepping a little out of her sphere--there remained nothing for her visitors but a universal gape of amazement, a murmur of deprecation or regret--“Oh, poor Miss Ferrars!” the ladies cried.